Cosmin Cocora, who was living in St Annes, was injured in a collision with a silver GMC van at Five Lane Ends in Garstang Road.

He suffered significant head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 24-year-old’s family have released a tribute.

They said: “With a deep sorrow the family announce the passing away of their only child, Cosmin Cocora, in a tragic collision. A brilliant young boy, University College London Graduate, very sensible and full of love, left us much too early at the age of 24. RIP our dear son, we will love you forever.”

Last known movements

Lancashire Police are still trying to trace Cosmin’s final movements that led to his death shortly after 4.10am on December 22.

Sergeant 2255 Tracey Ward from the Road Policing Unit said: “We are trying to trace anyone who may have known Cosmin Cocora and ask they contact us in order that we may learn a little more about Cosmin’s movements prior to his death.

“Cosmin, as we understand, was leading a quiet existence in St. Anne’s having moved to England from Romania to study. Shortly before his death we know he was in and around the centre of Preston with luggage in the form of a guitar in a case, a black rucksack and a large black wheeled suitcase. Unfortunately the large suitcase is missing and we are very keen to find it.”

“If anyone can help with any information it would very much assist the investigation team. In piecing together Cosmin’s last movements we hope to provide his family with answers which may make the grieving process a little easier for them at this difficult time.”

Police also believe a HGV driver may have witnesses the incident.

Sergeant Ward said: “We are also still appealing for the driver of the HGV which may have seen something that could assist us with our investigation to come forward.”

Anyone with any information can contact police on 101 quoting log 187 of December 22nd.